We’re in a New York state of mind...but this isn’t just about the Big Apple. Across the state, advocates are taking charge toward tobacco free communities and protecting the next generation from the negative impacts of tobacco – including on their mental health. 

New York has led the charge on laws protecting young people from tobacco. The Empire State is #1 in the country for the highest cigarette tax, and has passed a law prohibiting the sale of all flavored e-cigarettes – a major win for public health. 

Columbia University College Leaders Taylor L. and Arthur C.S. are focusing on community outreach and education to understand the impact of nicotine use on the Columbia community and in shaping policies to promote a healthier campus environment. During the Fall 2024 semester, they hosted the Nicotine Awareness and Help Town Hall, which served as an important opportunity for community members and students to learn and ask questions about their initiative in adopting a 100% tobacco/vape-free policy on campus. 

This town hall was open to all Columbia affiliates, as well members of the neighboring communities. Attendees expressed their concerns about secondhand smoke and the increased use of vaping products. Taylor and Arthur will continue to hold events on campus to engage and educate the campus community about nicotine use and perspectives on changes in their smoking and nicotine policies.  

Read more about our Tobacco and Vape-Free College Grant program here. 

In February 2025, New York Attorney General Letitia James filed yet another lawsuit, this time against Puff Bar and other e-cigarette makers, accusing them of illegal sales practices and marketing their products to children. The suit, following a two-year investigation, claims that companies targeted underage users with flavored products like “OMG Blow Pop” and “Strawberry Donut,” and promoted their vapes through social media ads and viral trends. James stated, "The vaping industry is taking a page out of Big Tobacco’s playbook," emphasizing the public health risks involved. 

New York is seeking hundreds of millions in damages and wants to establish a fund to combat vaping-related health issues. The lawsuit also targets violations of the state’s 2020 ban on flavored vape products and federal shipping regulations. This legal action adds to broader efforts against illegal vape sales, echoing past lawsuits like the one against Juul Labs, which was settled with New York and several other states for $462 million in 2023. The crackdown appears to be having an effect, with a significant decrease in teen vape use in recent years.